Bolivia Prosecutor's Office Charges Three in Alleged Russian Recruitment for War

Bolivia's Prosecutor's Office announced it has formally charged three detainees for their alleged involvement in recruiting Bolivians for Russia's war effort in Ukraine. The charges include human trafficking with the aim of recruitment.

Prosecutor Mijail Cavero stated that the office will vigorously defend the charges to protect the victims' rights. The investigation centers on a primary suspect, identified as A.A.M., who is currently considered a fugitive and is being sought by authorities. Recruitment activities were reportedly conducted via social media platforms.

Authorities have conducted joint operations with the police, seizing various items as evidence. The detainees are currently awaiting a hearing before a control judge, who will determine their legal status. The prosecution intends to request their preventive detention.

The investigation was initiated ex officio following public complaints from families of two young Bolivians who allegedly traveled to Russia in April, promised payments of $16,000, and are now feared dead. At least 16 potential victims have been identified, and the Prosecutor's Office is seeking information from Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, and Russia to locate missing Bolivians and identify those responsible.

The Russian Embassy in Bolivia has categorically denied any connection to the recruitment activities, dismissing the accusations as baseless. This case follows reports in April of approximately 130 Peruvians allegedly recruited by Russia for the conflict.